The GRE® Subject Tests

The GRE® Subject Tests measure achievement in a particular field of study and help departments evaluate applicants’ readiness for graduate school.

Carefully developed by committees of examiners with expertise in particular disciplines, each GRE Subject Test measures content taught in undergraduate programs that is important for graduate study in that discipline. The tests are intended for individuals who have an undergraduate major or extensive background in the field. These paper-delivered tests are offered three times per year (September, October and April) in the six subject areas described below.

Biology Test

The test consists of approximately 190 multiple-choice questions. The content of the test is organized into three subscore areas: Cellular and Molecular Biology, Organismal Biology, and Ecology and Evolution.

Chemistry Test

The test consists of approximately 130 multiple-choice questions. The content of the test emphasizes the four fields into which chemistry traditionally has been divided: Analytical, Inorganic, Organic and Physical Chemistry.

Literature in English Test

Each edition of the test consists of approximately 230 multiple-choice questions organized into four major areas: Literary Analysis, Identification, Cultural and Historical Contexts, and History and Theory of Literary Criticism.

Psychology Test

The test consist of approximately 205 multiple-choice questions covering Experimental, Social and General Psychology topics. In addition to a total test score, six subscores are reported to better meet the needs of graduate-level psychology programs: Biological, Cognitive, Social, Developmental, Clinical and Measurement/Methodology/Other. Learn more about these enhancements.